Traditional Italian Pizza Recipe

A traditional Italian pizza, also known as a Neapolitan pizza, is a difficult thing to create; in fact, according to a law recently passed in Italy, there are certain guidelines one must follow to properly make a pizza and bestow upon it the title of “traditional Italian pizza.”

A traditional Italian pizza comprises three distinct styles: Margherita, marinara, and Margherita extra. A Margherita pizza recipe can be found in our recipe section of the site. While a Margherita extra is the same as a regular one save for the addition of mozzarella from Campania in fillets. As such, this Italian pizza recipe will show you how to make a traditional Italian pizza, marinara style.

According to the guidelines set forth by the Associazione Vera Pizza Napoletana, a true Italian pizza crust must: 1. Consist of type 0 or 00 wheat flour, natural Neapolitan or brewer’s yeast, salt, and water; 2. Be prepared by hand or using a slow mixer; 3. Be rolled and shaped by hand after the dough rises; 4. Be no more than .12 inches thick; and 5. Be baked in a stone oven at 905 degrees Fahrenheit  with an oak-wood fire.

Since most people aren’t equipped to make dough like this, any pizza crust will due for the sake of our recipe.

To prepare the pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 clove of garlic
Oregano
Extra virgin olive oil
One can of crushed tomatoes

Notice how mozzarella cheese isn’t included? “Modern” pies didn’t see cheese added until 1889 with the introduction of the Margherita pizza. This recipe is of the traditional style, and a must-have for anyone who truly loves garlic.

Take the dough and cover it with the crushed tomatoes, leaving a bit of room at the edge. Cut the garlic into fine strips and place liberally over the sauce. Sprinkle some olive oil and oregano over the pizza and bake until the dough has reached your desired crispiness. Since the strict guidelines ensure you haven’t made an authentic Neapolitan pizza, you can go ahead and add some mozzarella cheese if you’d like. Don’t worry, I won’t tell.

There are dozens of Italian-style pizza recipes, with many tied to the regions in which they originated. The next time you’re in Italy, do your best to try as many as you can!

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